Sunday, November 23, 2008

The Duel

8th graders will begin studying THE DUEL between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr when we return from Thanksgiving. We've mentioned it, you even know what year it happens...(you do know that correct????)...but what we've not studied yet, is what exactly caused it, and why they were willing to actually shoot each other. It is one of many fascinating stories about Aaron Burr, someone who too often is overlooked in the study of U.S. History.

Checkout this preview of the video that will tie into our study.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

The Latest Scholarship on Ancient Israel

Although the 7th grade has been studying the Holy Lands in regard to the CRUSADES lately...this does connect to our earlier study this year of Jerusalem and the Hebrews.




Here is the link to watch the show

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Barbary Pirates: Then & Now



The story of the Barbary Pirates (1801), that the 8th grade will be focusing on the week we return from Thanksgiving break, seems very similar to some things happening now. Check this out.

SOMALI PIRATES


Friday, November 14, 2008

LEWIS & CLARK 1803-1806

The Journals of Lewis and Clark are a historians dream in regard to primary sources. They give an excellent account of exactly what happened, and when it happened on the expedition's journey. Many of the members of the expedition kept their own journals, along with both Lewis and Clark.

Find out more by reading some of these journals according to date.

When you select a date, make sure single digits such as 1 have a zero in front of them 01.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

The Crusades Begin 1095

The Crusades were called by the Pope as a means to take control of the city of Jersusalem from the Muslims who had grown powerful in Palestine. The Crusades end up being the cullmination of the growing power of the Catholic Church and the Barbarian kingdoms throughout the Dark Ages.


The Crusades To The Middle East



Muslims vs. Christians

Vikings 840-1066





The following videos are part of our VIKINGS study.
(p.s. Ask Mr. Doty or Ms. Hittle about Vikings)






Scandinavia & The Vikings


The Viking Raid On Holy Island


Viking Warriors


A Viking Village in Northern Germany


Viking Strong Ships


The Founding of Greenland


Leif Erikson & The Viking Sagas

Tuesday, November 4, 2008


ELECTION DAY!

FINALLY!

Remind mom and dad (and sisters, and brothers old enough...and aunts, uncles and anyone else 18 and older that you know....) to get out there and DO THEIR CIVIC DUTY today!

Regardless of who you support, it is an exciting day!

8th graders...don't forget to follow along tonight as electoral votes are counted to complete your map. It will be an exciting night! Remember it takes 270 ELECTORAL VOTES to win this thing!

Monday, November 3, 2008

7th Grade: The Dark Ages Begin 410 AD

Videos that accompany the lecture "The Dark Ages Begin."

Empire Ends

The Spread of Christianity

Horses & The Steppe

A Proud Empire Collapses

Dark Ages: Part 1

Google MAPS the Candidates

Google Maps gives a short biography of key places in the world that the two candidates have lived/visited/spent times. Very interesting.

Click HERE To See Their Journey

Saturday, November 1, 2008

Corn Maze Day


The Seventh and Eighth graders spent October 31 visiting Rippavilla Plantation in Spring Hill, Tennessee. While there they saw a presentation on the solar system, had lunch, and explored the corn maze, that was cut like our solar system. After returning to school, there were some other activities such as a pumpkin carving contest, teachers having a candy corn toss (which Ms. Kurzrock, and Mr. Beavers WON!...Thank you, thank you!) and just enjoying a beautiful Autumn day. Thanks to all the parents who planned and participated in this fun day!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE PICTURES